Everton FC Women’s head coach, Brian Sorensen has lauded Nigerian international Toni Payne following her impressive display in the Toffees’ 4-1 victory over Leicester City in the Women’s Super League (WSL).
Payne, who joined Everton from Sevilla ahead of the 2024/25 season, had gone 12 league games without a direct goal contribution before providing two assists in the weekend’s game.
Her performance earned praise from Sorensen, who revealed her growing influence on the team.
“She [Payne] is playing to her strength. She’s getting into those channels, driving into the box,” Sorensen told Everton TV after the match.
“It’s hard to be a defender when she’s there and facing you. It’s really good that she is clicking. Now she understands her role.”
With the victory, Everton climbed to eighth place in the 12-team WSL standings with 13 points from 13 matches, just two points behind local rivals Liverpool.
Payne, a versatile midfielder and forward, will aim to build on her latest display as Everton continue their quest for a stronger finish in the league.
